Michigan is known to many for many things, but perhaps the two most well-known aspects of our state are that it is home to the auto industry and it contains abundant natural resources.

These two things — cars and the outdoors — have played significant roles in the lives of generations of Michigan families. From the Model T to the modern crossover vehicle, our automobiles have helped connect us to nature in ways that we may not have otherwise been able to.

The modern car is advancing; it’s more efficient and environmentally conscious. Chief among these advancements is the Electric Vehicle and as you are likely aware, manufacturers like Tesla, Nissan, Chevy and Ford all offer some form of a plugin EV. But for all the benefits that these newer vehicles provide, one drawback most of them contend with is that of range.

Range anxiety, as it is sometimes referred to, can hinder or even spoil a road trip due to a lack of EV charge stations along the way. And when it comes to taking an EV to a state park it can be even more of a challenge.

For some of us in the Legislature, however, that challenge has been viewed as an opportunity.

I was happy to join with a bipartisan group of senators and representatives to introduce an eight-bill plan that aims to establish the first statewide charging network in the nation, including and especially in Michigan’s 103 state park and recreation areas, like Grand Mere State Park and Warren Dunes State Park, for example.

My bill would allow the state to install or lease space for electric charging stations in state parks, which in addition to aiding EV drivers, could also help generate revenue specifically for the park system.

Other bills in the plan would:

• Create an Electric Vehicle Council within the Michigan Department of Transportation. The council, composed of experts in energy, technology, transportation, environment, economic development and other related fields, would be tasked with developing a plan for a statewide charging infrastructure in coordination with utilities and private companies;

• Allow the state to install or lease space for electric vehicle charging stations at state park-and-rides; and,

• Provide tax incentives for small businesses and multi-unit housing to install electric vehicle charging stations.

Our state has long been a leader in helping to advance the auto industry, and this is a wonderful opportunity to continue that leadership by developing the state’s first-ever electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Michigan’s state motto is, “If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you.” Our plan will make it that much easier to do, and help you get you closer while you’re at it.

Kim LaSata, R, represents the 21st District, which includes Berrien, Cass and St. Joseph counties. She can be reached at (517) 373-6960 or SenKLaSata@senate.michigan.gov